KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer Review 2023 Best for Baking and Kitchen Tasks

Description

A Reliable Companion for All Your Baking Adventures

I recently tested the KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Almond Cream, and as someone who loves to bake, I have to say, this mixer is a game-changer. From whipping up batches of cookies to kneading dough for homemade bread, this machine handled every task I threw at it with ease. Let’s dive into the details to see why this stand mixer deserves a spot on your countertop—and where it might leave you wanting a little more.

Design and Build Quality

The metal construction of this stand mixer was the first thing that caught my eye. It felt solid and durable, like it could withstand years of heavy use. The Almond Cream finish adds a touch of elegance, blending seamlessly into my kitchen decor. With over 20 color options, there’s a shade to match any personality or kitchen aesthetic. I also loved the tilt-head design, which made it incredibly easy to access the bowl and add ingredients mid-mix. The head locks securely in place, ensuring stability during operation—a feature I deeply appreciated after dealing with wobbly mixers in the past.

However, the mixer is not lightweight, which might be a concern for some. At 24.2 pounds, moving it around the kitchen isn’t exactly effortless. That being said, its weight does contribute to its stability, so it’s a trade-off I was happy to make.

Performance and Versatility

This mixer is a powerhouse, offering 10 speeds to handle a wide range of recipes. From gently folding ingredients at the lower settings to whipping cream at speed 8, I found the speed options to be versatile and precise. The 59 touchpoints around the mixing bowl ensured thorough ingredient incorporation, which was evident while making cookie dough—there wasn’t a single unmixed clump at the bottom.

The 5-quart stainless steel bowl was spacious enough to handle everything I needed, from mixing dough for 9 dozen cookies in one batch to preparing cake batter. The bowl’s comfortable handle made it easy to pour out mixtures without any spills. Plus, the fact that it’s dishwasher-safe made cleanup a breeze.

One of my favorite aspects is the mixer’s compatibility with over 10 optional hub-powered attachments, such as pasta makers and food grinders. While I didn’t try all of these, the potential to expand its functionality is a huge plus.

Key Benefits

• Durable Metal Build: Built to last and handle heavy-duty tasks with ease.
• Large Capacity Bowl: Ideal for both small and large batches, accommodating up to 5 quarts.
• Tilt-Head Design: Makes adding ingredients effortless and secure during operation.
• 10-Speed Functionality: Offers flexibility for various recipes, from slow mixing to fast whipping.

Areas for Improvement

While this stand mixer excelled in most areas, there are a few caveats worth mentioning:

• Heavy Weight: At 24.2 pounds, it’s not the easiest to move around, so plan to dedicate a spot on your counter.
• Attachments Sold Separately: While the optional attachments add versatility, they come at an additional cost.
• Price Point: This mixer is an investment, and it might not be the best choice for occasional bakers.

Competing Products

When comparing this mixer to its competitors, such as the Cuisinart SM-50 and the Hamilton Beach Electric Stand Mixer, a few differences stood out. The Cuisinart model offers similar performance but lacks the same level of durability and color customization. On the other hand, the Hamilton Beach mixer is more affordable but doesn’t deliver the same robust mixing power or versatility with attachments.

Where this KitchenAid stand mixer truly shines is in its stability and build quality. Unlike some competitors that wobble or struggle with heavier doughs, this model powered through without breaking a sweat. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Hamilton Beach mixer might be worth considering, even if it sacrifices some of the premium features.

Value for Money

This mixer isn’t cheap, but when you consider its durability, performance, and versatility, it’s clear that you’re getting true value for your investment. Its ability to handle everything from everyday baking to more ambitious recipes makes it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen. For someone like me, who uses a mixer frequently, the upfront cost feels justified. However, if you’re more of an occasional baker, you might not fully utilize all the features, making it a less compelling purchase.

Overall, this stand mixer proved to be an indispensable tool for my baking needs. While it’s not perfect and does come with a few considerations, its performance and quality far outweigh its minor flaws.

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